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Science News for August 5, 2014


Researchers determine why tendons break down with age

Differences in proteins present in young and old tendons have been identified by researchers at Queen Mary University of London. Accumulated damage over time is thought to contribute to reduced ability of tendon cells to repair damage effectively, leading to increased risk of tendon injury with aging.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2014

This week from AGU: Sea-level spikes, volcanic risk, volcanos cause drought

A new study reveals that sea-level spikes can cause more damage to beaches than hurricanes, while a volcanic risk assessment in Saudi Arabia highlights the danger of future eruptions. Additionally, research finds that large volcanic eruptions can trigger strong droughts in eastern China, posing a threat to its food supply.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 5, 2014

Aspirin: Scientists believe cancer prevention benefits outweigh harms

Taking aspirin daily for at least 10 years can significantly cut the risk of major digestive tract cancers. Rates of bowel, stomach, and oesophageal cancer are reduced by around 35% and deaths by 40%, according to a new study. However, long-term use increases the risk of bleeding and other side effects.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateAug 5, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Prison smoking bans linked to substantial fall in deaths among US inmates

US study finds that prison smoking bans are associated with a substantial fall in deaths from smoking-related causes, such as heart disease and cancer. The study found that prisons with long-term bans saw a 9-11% reduction in smoking-related deaths, with longer-lasting bans leading to greater reductions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 5, 2014

Patients with autism spectrum disorder are not sensitive to 'being imitated'

A Japanese research group found that individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have decreased activity in the extrastriate body area when imitated, indicating a lack of proper understanding of movement. This study provides new insights into ASD and can be used to evaluate behavioral interventions for alleviating the disorder.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNeuroscience Research·DateAug 5, 2014

3-in-1 optical skin cancer probe

Researchers have developed a 3-in-1 optical probe that combines spectroscopic techniques to detect cancerous skin lesions. The device may reduce unnecessary biopsies by providing a clear picture of which skin lesions are most likely cancerous, potentially saving lives.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateAug 5, 2014

Butterflies change wing color in new Yale research

Scientists at Yale University have successfully changed the color of butterfly wings using evolutionary principles, producing the first structural color change in an animal. The research has implications for the design of new materials and devices, and may help physicists and engineers develop more efficient designs.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2014
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Boost for cancer prevention research

A new £6 million initiative is being launched to support cutting-edge research on cancer prevention. The project aims to build capacity in prevention science, combining lifestyle changes and interdisciplinary collaboration to reduce cancer cases.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·DateAug 5, 2014

How spiders spin silk

Researchers discovered that carbonic anhydrase generates CO2 and H+ ions, driving the conversion of soluble spidroins to solid silk fibers. The 'lock and trigger' model proposes pairing up N-terminal domains locks spidroins into a network, while C-terminal domain changes trigger rapid polymerization.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 5, 2014

UH professor named 2014 American Chemical Society Cope Scholar

Olafs Daugulis, a University of Houston associate professor, is recognized for his work on transition metal-catalyzed carbon–hydrogen bond functionalization reactions. He will receive a $40,000 research grant and present at the Arthur C. Cope Symposium in San Francisco.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 5, 2014

'Treatments waiting to be discovered' inside new database

Researchers have created a comprehensive database to study microRNA regulation of genes and their targets. The multiMiR database combines 50 million records from existing repositories, enabling efficient analysis and identification of new treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateAug 5, 2014
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Transplanting neural progenitors to build a neuronal relay across the injured spinal cord

Researchers propose transplanting neural progenitor cells to build a neuronal relay across the injured spinal cord. The model focuses on forming two synaptic connections, one between host axons and graft-derived neurons, and the other between graft axons and target sites within the host, aiming to restore connectivity and function.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 5, 2014
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Biology made simpler with clear tissues

Researchers at Caltech have developed a new technique called PARS that allows for whole-body clearing of tissue, enabling the study of individual cells and fine structures. This breakthrough has significant implications for disease diagnosis and development research.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateAug 5, 2014

Eating more dietary pulses can increase fullness, may help manage weight

A recent study published by St. Michael's Hospital found that consuming about one serving of beans, peas, chickpeas or lentils per day can lead to increased feelings of fullness. This may help with better weight management and weight loss. Pulses have a low glycemic index and can be used to reduce animal protein and 'bad' fats in meals.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalObesity·DateAug 5, 2014
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

In search for Alzheimer's drug, a major STEP forward

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a new drug compound, TC-2153, that inhibits the negative effects of STEP protein and reverses cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease. The compound was found to improve cognitive function in mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic avenue for treating the disease.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 5, 2014
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Warning to parents on high acidity drinks

Researchers at the University of Adelaide found that acidity from soft drinks and fruit juice can cause lifelong damage to young people's teeth within 30 seconds. Parents are advised to limit their children's consumption of acidic beverages to prevent long-term dental issues.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Dentistry·DateAug 5, 2014

Diamond defect interior design

Scientists have created a way to plant imperfections called 'NV centers' at specific spots within a diamond lattice, advancing quantum computing and atomic-scale measurement. The technique successfully localized NV centers within a cavity approximately 180 nanometers across.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 5, 2014

Just one simple question can identify narcissistic people

A new method to identify narcissistic people has been developed, using a single-item scale that can help researchers in crunch time. The Single Item Narcissism Scale (SINS) was validated in 11 experiments involving over 2,200 people and found to be reliable in identifying narcissistic individuals.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 5, 2014
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

NASA's Aqua satellite puts 2 eyes on Hurricane Bertha

The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer instruments aboard NASA's Aqua satellite provided infrared data and a visible image of Hurricane Bertha. The storm weakened to a tropical storm by August 5, with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 5, 2014

Brief counseling for drug use doesn't work, BU study finds

A new study published in JAMA finds that two brief counseling interventions did not reduce the continued use of marijuana, cocaine, or opioids. The researchers suggest that clinicians should consider longer and more complex care management strategies to address unhealthy drug use. The study's findings raise questions about the federal ...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateAug 5, 2014

Mammography benefits women over 75

A new study published in Radiology suggests that mammography screening for women over 75 may reduce the rate of more advanced breast cancers, leading to improved survival rates. Mammography-detected invasive breast cancer patients had a 10% reduction in mortality after five years.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateAug 5, 2014

Butterflies could hold key to probes that repair genes

Researchers at Clemson University are developing probes that can siphon liquid out of single cells using the proboscis of butterflies. The technology has the potential to revolutionize medical testing and treatment, allowing doctors to replace defective genes with healthy ones.

SourceClemson University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 5, 2014
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Used-cigarette butts offer energy storage solution

Scientists from South Korea convert used-cigarette filters into a superior carbon-based material for supercapacitors, offering an eco-friendly solution to meet increasing energy demands. The material stores more electrical energy than commercially available options and has potential applications in various devices.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNanotechnology·DateAug 5, 2014

Cancer fighter can help battle pneumonia

A synthesized version of tumor necrosis factor's tip appears to work like a doorstop to keep sodium channels open inside the lungs' air sacs, clearing excess fluid. The TIP peptide may help patients survive pneumonia by targeting bacterial toxins and promoting natural defense mechanisms.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 5, 2014
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Trapped: Cell-invading piece of virus captured in lab by SLU scientists

Researchers at Saint Louis University have trapped the part of a virus responsible for inserting its DNA into human cells, a crucial step in understanding how HIV infects people. By capturing integrase with x-ray crystallography, scientists aim to develop new treatments and better understand how existing drugs work.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2014

Smart bacteria help each other survive

Researchers at Lund University discovered how Haemophilus influenzae bacteria can share iron with each other, increasing their chances of survival and potentially creating new vaccine targets. This interaction has significant implications for the development of vaccines and treatments for respiratory infections.

SourceLund University·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Microbiology·DateAug 5, 2014

Training schemes help jobless men feel better about themselves

UK government's active labor market programs increase life satisfaction, happiness, and feelings of life worth among the unemployed, particularly men. These work-oriented programs replicate the paid work environment through features like time structure, social activity, and routine, leading to greater psychosocial resilience.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateAug 5, 2014

Rituals can help older people remember to take their asthma meds

A study found that storing medication in the bathroom and incorporating it into daily routines can improve adherence to prescribed inhalers. The research identified six strategies that aid elderly asthmatics in managing their condition, providing clinicians and care coaches with useful ideas to support patients.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 5, 2014

Centralizing stroke services can reduce deaths and time in hospital

A study found that centralizing acute stroke services in urban areas can lead to significant reductions in mortality and length of hospital stay, particularly among patients with ischemic strokes. This approach resulted in a total annual saving of over 8,000 hospital days in London and Manchester.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 5, 2014
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Researchers uncover novel process for creation of fuel and chemical compounds

A team of researchers from the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center has identified genes and enzymes that produce a promising compound, the 19 carbon furan-containing fatty acid. This compound has various potential uses as a biological alternative to compounds derived from fossil fuels. The discovery was published in Proceedings of th...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2014

Clues to the ageing of tendons unlocked for the first time

Scientists analyzed horse tendons to understand aging mechanisms, revealing protein differences between young and old horses. They found that certain proteins alter with age, slowing healing processes. This research could lead to better treatment strategies for human tendon injuries.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2014

UH Case Medical Center study validates new approach to high blood pressure

Researchers found that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) resulted in significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. MBSR was more effective than progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) in reducing blood pressure levels, suggesting it could be a valuable adjunct to traditional treatment plans for hypertension.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateAug 5, 2014

In search for Alzheimer's drug, a major STEP forward

Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have discovered a new drug compound, TC-2153, that inhibits the negative effects of STEP protein, which is key to regulating learning and memory in Alzheimer's disease. Decreasing STEP levels reversed cognitive deficits in mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for treating the condition.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 5, 2014
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Researchers boost insect aggression by altering brain metabolism

Researchers have discovered that interfering with a basic metabolic pathway in insect brains can increase aggression in fruit flies and honey bees. The team found that suppressing key genes involved in energy generation leads to increased aggression, but this effect is lost in chronically stressed individuals.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2014
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Genetic testing of tumor is recommended for colorectal cancer patients

The US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommends genetic testing of tumors for all newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients with a familial risk of the disease. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis of Lynch syndrome and direct management for affected individuals, as well as family members.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 5, 2014

Baby aspirin? Many doctors don't recommend, despite guidelines

A study found that only 34% of men and 42% of women were told to take daily low-dose aspirin for heart attack prevention. The disconnect may be due to time constraints and uncertainty about therapy's benefits versus potential harms. Expanded primary care teams could help improve guideline adherence.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 5, 2014

Common chemical in mothers may negatively affect the IQ of their unborn children

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that women with high levels of perchlorate during pregnancy may have children with below-average IQs. Perchlorate, a common chemical contaminant, can affect thyroid function and lead to hypothyroidism, which is associated with cognitive impairment.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 5, 2014
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

NASA sees heavy rain in Hurricane Iselle as it heads toward Hawaii

TRMM satellite data revealed extreme rainfall rates of almost 182 mm per hour in Hurricane Iselle's eye wall, making it a category four hurricane at the time. The storm is expected to weaken as it heads westward into the Central Pacific Ocean and may make landfall over the Big Island as a tropical storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 5, 2014

LEDs made from 'wonder material' perovskite

A hybrid form of perovskite has been used to make high-brightness LEDs with a simple and scalable process, potentially replacing conventional methods. The results could provide a lot of value to the flat-panel display industry.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 5, 2014

The interaction of climate change, fire, and forests in the US

A special journal section assesses regional interactions between climate change, fire, and forests in the US, providing insights into projected changes and ecosystem services. The goal is to inform forest management choices and policy responses to mitigate these impacts.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateAug 5, 2014
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

The next graphene?

A team of UC Riverside engineers will characterize, analyze, and synthesize van der Waals materials for novel electronic devices, optical detectors, and energy conversion systems. The research aims to produce new material synthesis techniques and enable practical applications in ultra-thin film materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 5, 2014

Obesity paradox in survival from sepsis

A recent study published in Critical Care Medicine found that heavier patients are more likely to survive sepsis, a life-threatening infection. This obesity paradox challenges conventional wisdom and may improve care for all patients with sepsis and other critical illnesses.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateAug 5, 2014

Social networking is key to helping bugs spread, study shows

Researchers used mathematical models and genetic analysis to discover that cooperative bacteria are better equipped to adapt to environments, increasing their ability to infect multiple species. This knowledge could help predict and manage health threats from animal-borne diseases.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 5, 2014
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Pistachios may lower vascular response to stress in type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that consuming two servings of pistachios per day lowered vascular constriction during stress and improved neural control of the heart in adults with well-controlled Type 2 diabetes. The pistachio diet also showed improvements in sleep blood pressure, vascular response to stress, and vagal control of the heart.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 5, 2014

A new 'whey' to control diabetes

A new study suggests that consuming whey protein before meals can reduce blood sugar spikes and improve the body's insulin response in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Glucagon-like peptide-1 production is increased, stimulating insulin secretion and reducing glucose rise after meals.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalDiabetologia·DateAug 5, 2014

Grizzly research offers surprising insights into diabetes-obesity link

Researchers studying grizzly bears have discovered a natural state of diabetes that serves a biological purpose and is reversible. Grizzlies become diabetic only weeks after hibernation, but then recover when they wake up in the spring. The study reveals how natural biology can teach us about animal coping mechanisms with diseases.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 5, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

No apparent link between sleep apnea and cancer: Large study

A large cohort study of 10,149 patients found no apparent causal link between obstructive sleep apnea and cancer development. However, researchers discovered that low oxygen levels were linked to an increased risk of smoking-related cancers.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 5, 2014

Year-round preventive treatment reduces malaria risk in young children

A year-round preventive drug treatment substantially reduces young children's risk of contracting malaria, with no serious adverse events reported. The study found that a monthly dose of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine was the most effective at reducing malaria risk in children from 6 months to 24 months of age.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 5, 2014

George W. Kattawar selected as 2014 Jerlov Award recipient

Dr. Kattawar's work on polarization and radiative transfer theory has advanced knowledge of the ocean's nature and consequences of light. He has received numerous teaching awards, mentored over 40 students, and served on academic advisory committees.

SourceThe Oceanography Society·DateAug 5, 2014
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New hospital screening tool helps find children at nutritional risk easier, study finds

A new hospital screening tool, Pediatric Nutrition Screening Tool (PNST), has been found to be effective in identifying children at nutritional risk. The PNST identified 37.6% of patients as being at nutritional risk, compared to 34.2% with the existing pediatric Subjective Global Nutrition Assessment (SGNA).

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateAug 5, 2014

Surprise discovery could see graphene used to improve health

Researchers from Monash University discovered that graphene oxide sheets can change structure to become liquid crystal droplets spontaneously. This opens up possibilities for its use in drug delivery and disease detection, potentially paving the way for new methods of detecting toxins.

SourceMonash University·JournalChemical Communications·DateAug 5, 2014

Planet-like object may have spent its youth as hot as a star

The Y dwarf WISE J0304-2705 is an extremely cool object, currently at 200-300°F (100-150°C), which may have spent its youth as hot as a star. Its unusual features suggest it could be an ancient object with a diverse history.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 5, 2014